The best time to dive in the Galápagos islands is any month of the year! We can see the marine life here all year round, you just need to decide how warm you like your water.

The Galapagos Islands diving season can be split in two: wet and dry. Choosing when to dive really depends on what wildlife you want to see.

The warm season is from December to May due to the Panama current in the north picking up strength, with water temperatures around 22C – 27C. The visibility is, on average, a bit better because the Humboldt Current slacks off and there is not so much nutrient in the water. The days are hot and humid with clear blue skies.

During February – April, we definitely recommend a hotel with AC as average temperatures are 30 – 35C day and night with humidity around 80% – 85%.

January to March usually bring heavy rains, but it’s normally only early morning or overnight, which makes the days very humid.

These months will give you a slightly higher possibility to see larger schools of hammerhead sharks, White tipped reef sharks, and many marine turtles and schools of rays.

The clouds start to appear in June and it gets steadily cooler through July – November with average temperatures being 18 – 24C. The Humboldt Current becomes stronger and brings colder water and welcome nutrients for the marine and bird life, giving an average water temperature of 18 – 20C, but we do get some days at 16C, so if you feel the cold bring your layers and your hoods! Dry suits are definitely the envy of divers using rental wetsuits during these days. Always check your Galapagos water temperature before diving!

These months are the “high season” for the liveaboards as the nutrient rich waters attract the giant Whale Sharks to the waters around Wolf and Darwin islands. Though the water is cold, the marine life is still abundant around the central islands also, with Mola Mola sightings increasing around Gordon Rocks.

If you plan to do any walking on the island during this time, bring a lightweight rain jacket or poncho, as the misty rains “garua” are very frequent, especially in the highlands where the tortoises live.

A word of warning: The sea breezes in the Galápagos Islands create a wonderful climate, but don’t be fooled by the overcast skies.

In Ecuador, you will pay painfully for deciding you don’t need your sunscreen, as we are very close to the sun! Follow this advice: Always wear sun protection, including a hat to protect your upper head and face, as well as sunglasses and light, loose clothing.

Use waterproof sunscreens with an SPF factor of at least 15; if you easily burn, go for the SPF 50, take a full bottle, and remember to apply it everywhere (including in less obvious places, such as the top of your feet and ears).

Many a day has come to an end with bright red bodies after snorkel trips or, the most notorious of all… a trip to Tortuga Bay! We also suggest bringing a bottle of high-quality aloe vera gel and a lycra rash vest. These recommendations apply to the Ecuadorian mainland also. Being at altitude can contribute to terrible sunburn, so bring plenty of sunscreen.